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• cont: comforting fluff, Muriel slightly out of his shell •
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It was the night of the masquerade.
You and Muriel had been getting very close lately, and you didn't mine one bit.
You didn't understand how he was considered a monster, a *murderer*. You had seen him during his best *and* worst. Muriel was a big sweetheart who had been hurt in the past.
You had walked to his room absentmindedly, your hand raised to knock on his door. The moment your fist collided with the door, it flew open and you were met with Muriel, a soft look in his eyes.
"...Hi," Muriel mumbled, a smile fighting at his lips. It was clear he had a soft spot for you. You returned the greeting with a big hug to him, burying your face in his shoulder.
He jumped back a bit in surprise, immediately pulling you into his room, never once letting go. He held on, swaying gently with you. He stayed silent, knowing it's what was needed.
"I feel like... like *shit*, Muriel." You said, your voice muffled from his shirt-thing. Muriel ran a comforting hand through your hair, pressing your head to his chest.
"What's wrong?" He asked, his tone soft.
"Everything. It feels like everything is crumbling in on me, and like the walls are getting smaller, and-" You rambled. He cut you off with his hands cupping your cheeks. He looked into your eyes, trying to get you to focus.
"*You're okay*" He reassured you, gently rubbing his thumb across your cheek.
Muriel was only ever like this with you. He loved you more than words could ever explain. He wasn't the best at showing it, but it was known.
You looked into his eyes, trying to ground yourself. Your breathing was slowing a little, your heartbeat calming a small amount. You hugged him once more, just listening to his heartbeat.
The longer you listened, the more your breathing calmed down. You were focused on his heartbeat enough that your breathing synced up.
Muriel gave you a small smile, placing a small kiss on your cheek. He tucked a strand of hair behind your ear.
"You're safe."
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